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 Practicalities
Language
The official language of the conference is English. Simultaneous translation will not be provided.
The official languages in Finland are Finnish and Swedish, of which Finnish is used in Tampere. Even though English is widely spoken in Finland, you may occasionally find people with no command of the language.
Passport / Visa
Finland is a member of the European Union and visas are not required for citizens of EU-countries. A valid passport is required. Citizens of other countries should contact their nearest Finnish embassy for further information. Visitors requiring a visa for entry to Finland are strongly advised to make an application in their home country at least three months before the intended date of travel. Visitors who need a Finnish visa and plan to fly back home from Helsinki after visiting St Petersburg should have a double entry Finnish visa.
Letter of invitation
Participants from some countries outside Europe will require a visa. Upon request, the Congress office will send a letter of invitation (by postal mail) after receipt of the full payment of the registration fee. This invitation implies no obligation, financial or otherwise, by the EAA Organizing Committee.
Weather
Nature’s gift to Finland is her four seasons, each providing an unforgettable experience. In spring, the average daily temperature is around 13° C (55° F). However, Finns would not be that surprised for anything between 0° – 25° C (32° – 77° F). It may thus be worth to check out the latest forecast provided, for instance, Finnish Meteorological Institute. In mid May the sunrise will take place at around 4.30 am and the sun will set at around 10 pm. Do note though that during this time of the year the nights are not really dark.
Money
Finnish banks are open on weekdays from 10:00am to 4:15pm. Foreign currency and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged in banks and exchange offices, including Forex at the Department Store Stockmann next to the railway station. ATMs for cash withdrawal are widespread and marked by an orange “OTTO” sign. Major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard and EuroCard can be used for payment in most shops and restaurants.
There is virtually no tipping culture in Finland. The hotel room rates, taxi prices and restaurant menus include service charges. Tips are thus not expected, but are sometimes given for exceptionally good service.
Time zone
Finnish time zone is GMT+2 hours. Finland is thus one hour ahead of Central European Time (CET) and two hours ahead of the time in the UK and Ireland.
Computer services, e-mail access and photocopies
Delegates have the possibility to use the Linna building’s computer classroom, in which standard office programs and internet browsers are available. Please note that printing will not be possible. The classroom is located on the ground floor of Linna building, and is open as follows:
Tuesday 12 May: 15.00-19.00hrs
Wednesday 13 May: 08.30-18.00hrs
Thursday 14 May: 08.30-18.00 hrs
Friday 15 May: 08.30-16.00hrs
In the Tampere Hall there is a free wireless network available at Café Soolo (entrance level). The Information Desk sells vouchers for wireless network access at other areas of the venue.
There is a copying service for the congress delegates at the information desk in Tampere Hall (0,20 €/page).
Drinking and smoking regulations
Smoking is not permitted indoors in public buildings and other places open to the public. This also includes restaurants, pubs and clubs. In some places there are designated smoking zones. Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited.
Electricity
The electric current in Finland is 220 V (230 V), 50 Hz. Like in continental Europe a two-pin plug system is used. Adapters are available in airport shops, for instance.
Emergency situations and medical services
The national phone number for emergency services is 112. No area code is required. First aid will be available at the congress venue.
Taxis and public transportation
Taxis can be hired from taxi stands, booked by telephone or sometimes hailed on streets. Using taxis is considered to be safe and fairly simple in Finland. The cars have a meter indicating the fare and the driver will not expect to be given tips. You can book a taxi by telephone by calling 01004131, or hire one from the taxi stands. See the website of Tampere Area Local Ltd, www.taksitampere.fi/booktaxi.html.
Tampere City Transport offers reliable public transportation with some 30 bus routes around the city. The cost of a single ticket is 2,50 €.
Tourist information and further practicalities
Visit Finland, the official travel and tourism guide by the Finnish Tourist Board gives information on numerous issues, including practicalities. The local tourist information center GO Tampere is located at the Railway station. Practical information on Tampere may be sought from their website.
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